Live Well Be Well

You think you know what resilience looks like.You picture someone gritting their teeth, pushing through, holding on tight.Someone who climbs mountains without oxygen, survives avalanches, makes it to magazine covers.This week's guest, Cory Richards, did all of that. He isn't just a world-renowned climber and National Geographic photographer, he's someone who has been to the edge, and then even further inward. From becoming the first American to summit an 8,000m peak in winter, to childhood trauma, being institutionalised at 14, homelessness at 15, battling bipolar disorder, addiction, sexual exploration that blurred consent, and suicidal ideation, his story is a mirror to everything we hide, deny, and eventually must face. But what he discovered is that none of that was resilience at all. It was survival.In this unforgettable conversation, Cory opens up about the long descent after the summit, the messy, nonlinear path of healing, identity, and emotional truth. His memoir The Color of Everything isn't just a book. It's a reckoning. And here, with radical honesty, we unravel the questions we rarely give men, or ourselves, permission to ask.We explore: – What surviving an avalanche teaches you about control, surrender, and mortality – How bipolar II and trauma shaped his mind and nearly took his life – Why sex became a substitute for safety, and what real intimacy requires – The complicated truth of masculinity, shame, and public accountability – Why survival isn't the same as resilience and why real resilience starts with letting go– How self-sourced love, community, and curiosity are changing the way he livesLove,Sarah Ann

What if everything you thought about healing was incomplete? In this 5 Questions episode, Dr. Emilia Vuorisalmi shares the lesser-heard truth behind wellness trends, love addiction, emotional burnout, and the power of simply learning how to breathe again. We explore why self-worth, presence, and storytelling may be the most vital tools for health.Dr. Emilia VuorisalmiListen to the full episode⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠***This episode is sponsored by Spatone – the No.1 iron-rich water supplement.This is a product I genuinely believe in — one I've used personally and recommended in the clinic for years. Spatone is a natural iron-rich water that's incredibly gentle on the stomach. No harsh tablets, no digestive upset — just one naturally sourced ingredient that works.If you're looking for iron support that actually feels good to take, this is the one I trust. You can pick up Spatone at Boots: ⁠⁠⁠Spatone Apple Daily Iron Shots + Vitamin C 28 Sachets - Boots⁠⁠⁠**This episode is also sponsored by London Nootropics, the best-in-class adaptogenic coffee I trust. Made with Hifas da Terra mushroom extracts, it supports focus, calm, and energy, and helps you stay sharp throughout the day. Enjoy 20% off with code LIVEWELLBEWELL at ⁠⁠⁠londonnootropics.com⁠⁠⁠***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:These 3 Hormones Could Be Why You're Addicted to Love | Dr. Emilia Vuorisalmihttps://youtu.be/tjms17l7hao***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore the deep connection between meaning, wisdom, and growth. From the misunderstanding of meaning in modern culture to the importance of shared wisdom, we dive into how self-deception and trauma shape our lives. Is wisdom something we can cultivate alone? John VervaekeListen to the full episode⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠***This episode is sponsored by Spatone – the No.1 iron-rich water supplement.This is a product I genuinely believe in — one I've used personally and recommended in the clinic for years. Spatone is a natural iron-rich water that's incredibly gentle on the stomach. No harsh tablets, no digestive upset — just one naturally sourced ingredient that works.If you're looking for iron support that actually feels good to take, this is the one I trust. You can pick up Spatone at Boots: ⁠⁠⁠Spatone Apple Daily Iron Shots + Vitamin C 28 Sachets - Boots⁠⁠⁠**This episode is also sponsored by London Nootropics, the best-in-class adaptogenic coffee I trust. Made with Hifas da Terra mushroom extracts, it supports focus, calm, and energy, and helps you stay sharp throughout the day. Enjoy 20% off with code LIVEWELLBEWELL at ⁠⁠⁠londonnootropics.com⁠⁠⁠***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Understanding the Loneliness Epidemic | Dr. John Vervaeke on Trust, Belonging & Meaninghttps://youtu.be/AbxCzAt6ZcM***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

Your neurons can become younger.Your gut can reshape itself in five days.Your immune system can learn to fight cancer.This isn't theory. It's mycology.And it's about to change how you think about what your body can do.This week on Live Well Be Well, I sit down with Dr. Catalina Fernández de Ana Portela, a pioneering mycologist and oncologist who's spent 26 years unlocking the therapeutic power of mushrooms. From Lion's Mane and Reishi to Cordyceps, she's led clinical trials across cancer, autism, neurodegenerative disease, and fertility, quietly reshaping how we think about prevention, healing, and the intelligence of nature.In this episode, we explore:The real science behind Lion's Mane: neuroplasticity, contains GABA, and why your neurons can actually become youngerWhy Lion's Mane may support brain health, gut health, autism, Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's treatmentHow Reishi could help reduce stress and anxiety, and modulate neurotransmitters like GABAThe real science behind putting mushrooms in your coffee (yes, it's more than a trend!)What Cordyceps does for energy, fertility, and performance, and how mushrooms support both male and female reproductive healthBreakthrough research on mushrooms in integrative oncology, including their effects on the gut microbiome and immune systemThe gut-brain axis: how mushrooms can reshape your microbiome in 5 days and support conditions from autism to cancerThe supplement quality crisis: why only 25% of products contain what they claim and how to find trustworthy brandsWhether you're curious about adding Lion's Mane to your morning coffee, wondering if Reishi could actually help your anxiety, or want to understand how mushrooms are being used alongside chemotherapy in clinical trials, this conversation will change how you think about what's possible. The question isn't whether mushrooms work. The science is undeniable. Now it's about finding the right approach for you.Love,Sarah Ann

How does emotional health influence your physical well-being? In this video, Kate Tolo shares her personal journey of how addressing emotional barriers helped transform her diet and overall health. Can emotional healing unlock lasting physical health? Watch to discover how emotional health is the key to unlocking a better, healthier you.Kate ToloListen to the full episode⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠***This episode is sponsored by Spatone – the No.1 iron-rich water supplement.This is a product I genuinely believe in — one I've used personally and recommended in the clinic for years. Spatone is a natural iron-rich water that's incredibly gentle on the stomach. No harsh tablets, no digestive upset — just one naturally sourced ingredient that works.If you're looking for iron support that actually feels good to take, this is the one I trust. You can pick up Spatone at Boots: ⁠⁠Spatone Apple Daily Iron Shots + Vitamin C 28 Sachets - Boots⁠⁠**This episode is also sponsored by London Nootropics, the best-in-class adaptogenic coffee I trust. Made with Hifas da Terra mushroom extracts, it supports focus, calm, and energy, and helps you stay sharp throughout the day. Enjoy 20% off with code LIVEWELLBEWELL at ⁠⁠londonnootropics.com⁠⁠***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:The FIRST Woman To Follow Bryan Johnson's $2M Anti-Aging Blueprint | Why Kate Tolo Is Differenthttps://youtu.be/BJC_E_gXYMg***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

What does it cost to follow your own map?Dr. Emeran Mayer, pioneer of the mind-gut connection, shares the unexpected choices that defined his life from resisting conformity to overcoming early fears. In this short, reflective episode, he explains why one small change rewired his path and what he still struggles to make peace with.Dr. Emeran MayerListen to the full episode⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***This episode is sponsored by Spatone – the No.1 iron-rich water supplement.This is a product I genuinely believe in — one I've used personally and recommended in the clinic for years. Spatone is a natural iron-rich water that's incredibly gentle on the stomach. No harsh tablets, no digestive upset — just one naturally sourced ingredient that works.If you're looking for iron support that actually feels good to take, this is the one I trust. You can pick up Spatone at Boots: ⁠Spatone Apple Daily Iron Shots + Vitamin C 28 Sachets - Boots⁠**This episode is also sponsored by London Nootropics, the best-in-class adaptogenic coffee I trust. Made with Hifas da Terra mushroom extracts, it supports focus, calm, and energy, and helps you stay sharp throughout the day. Enjoy 20% off with code LIVEWELLBEWELL at ⁠londonnootropics.com⁠***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:The Gut-Mind Doctor: The Mind & Food Strategies That Can Heal Your Gut Microbiome | Dr. Emeran Mayerhttps://youtu.be/yL5ZtoJAUBs***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

Trigger Warning:This episode includes discussion of trauma, suicide, abuse, and emotional processing in the context of psychedelic therapy. Please take care while listening. Viewer discretion is advised.You've been told psychedelics are poison.That healing trauma requires years of talk therapy.What if three sessions could change everything?This week on Live Well Be Well, I sit down with Dr. Rick Doblin, who has spent 39 years fighting for something most people thought impossible: bringing psychedelics back into medicine. As the founder of MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies), Rick has dedicated his life to proving that MDMA isn't just a party drug. It's a revolutionary treatment for trauma that could change how we understand healing itself.Rick doesn't just speak about psychedelics as science or policy. He's lived them, studied them, and helped thousands heal with them. His work isn't about escapism. It's about going deeper. Into the body. Into memory. Into parts of ourselves we've long avoided. And then, through compassion and skilled integration, coming out the other side, changed.We explore:Rick's first psychedelic experience and what it taught him about interconnectednessHow MDMA works in the brain to reduce fear and increase compassionWhy MDMA may be the most effective tool we have for PTSDThe three-phase therapy protocol and why context matters more than the drug itselfWhat went wrong with FDA approval and why Rick believes approval is inevitableThe difference between a "bad trip" and a meaningful oneWhy people with the most difficult childhoods often show the greatest improvement with MDMA therapyHow patients develop empathy (not forgiveness, but understanding) for their perpetratorsYour trauma doesn't define you. But learning to hold it with compassion might just set you free.Love,Sarah Ann

Sprouts are one of the most nutrient-dense, accessible foods on the planet. In this clip, Doug Evans explains how these tiny plants boost protein, reduce anti-nutrients, and grow without soil or sunlight, making them a simple, powerful upgrade to any diet.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:The MOST Surprising Food That Fights Disease & Helps With Losing Weight | Doug Evanshttps://youtu.be/YRuYfCmIz74***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

What happens when you achieve everything you set out to, and still feel empty? In this conversation with Simon Sinek, he shares the painful turning point that led to Start With Why, how ADHD became his greatest asset, and why so many exceptional leaders carry hidden struggles. The answers aren't in performance, they're in self-awareness, vulnerability, and knowing how to ask the right questions.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***This episode is sponsored by Spatone – the No.1 iron-rich water supplement.This is a product I genuinely believe in — one I've used personally and recommended in the clinic for years. Spatone is a natural iron-rich water that's incredibly gentle on the stomach. No harsh tablets, no digestive upset — just one naturally sourced ingredient that works.If you're looking for iron support that actually feels good to take, this is the one I trust. You can pick up Spatone at Boots: ⁠Spatone Apple Daily Iron Shots + Vitamin C 28 Sachets - Boots***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Simon Sinek: The ADHD Superpower - Why It's My Greatest Advantagehttps://youtu.be/_wopj2Qk-4c***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

You've been told your hormones make you irrational.That menopause means cognitive decline, your emotions are just chemistry gone wrong, and your brain is simply too complicated to understand.Science says otherwise.This week's guest, Dr. Sarah McKay, is a neuroscientist, author, and brain health expert who's spent her career dismantling the myths we've been told about women's brains. From the idea that we're slaves to our hormones to the fear that menopause means inevitable decline, Sarah brings data, nuance, and hope to conversations that have been shaped by outdated stereotypes for far too long.We explore:Why male and female brains are more similar than different, and how cultural context shapes the differences we do seeThe surprising truth about PMS: how rates vary from 12% in France to 90% in IranWhy the stereotype that women are "more emotional" isn't backed by scienceHow your brain actually changes during menopauseThe real relationship between hormones, sleep, and brain fogWhy early puberty affects girls and boys so differentlyWhat brain networks do when estrogen declinesThe truth about HRT and brain health: what the data actually showsHow expectations and cultural narratives create the experiences we haveSarah doesn't dismiss women's struggles or minimize real symptoms. Instead, she offers something more powerful: the understanding that our brains are not broken, fragile, or at the mercy of our biology. They're sophisticated, adaptive, and capable of remarkable reorganization throughout our lives.This isn't about toxic positivity or dismissing genuine challenges. It's about recognizing that the stories we've been told about women's brains, that we're irrational, unstable, or declining, aren't just wrong. They're actively shaping our reality.Love,Sarah Ann

Does understanding your menstrual cycle unlock better health, fertility, and performance? In this conversation with Dr. Stacy Sims, she breaks down the four phases of your cycle, reveals why anovulatory cycles are becoming more common, and explains how stress, diet, and lifestyle directly impact your hormones. From tracking your bleed patterns to understanding why women need different nutrition than men, this isn't just about periods. It's about optimizing your entire well-being.Dr. Stacy SimsListen to the full episode⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Dr. Stacy Sims on Perimenopause & How to Manage Symptoms | Fitness and Nutrition for WOMENhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsaGZXiEbNs&list=PLfXKbjBGaUhb8BME00cxF6YPp1J5EcO7j&index=18***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

What if the drug that could save your life… already exists? In this powerful story from David Fajgenbaum, you'll hear how a man on the brink of death discovered an existing drug, never approved for his illness, that brought him back. But the real shock? No one profits from it, so no one's looking. Learn the hidden world of drug repurposing, AI-driven discovery, and the mission to match life-saving treatments to the people who need them most.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:How AI is Revolutionizing Medicine | The Doctor Who Saved Himself With AI | Dr. David Fajgenbaumhttps://youtu.be/cE4ytfAw614***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

Your gut isn't just about what you eat.It's about how you live, love, feel, and breathe.In this episode of Live Well Be Well, I sit down with Emily Leeming, PhD, gut-brain researcher at King's College London and registered nutritionist whose work bridges the gap between cutting-edge microbiome science and practical wellness, to uncover the hidden forces shaping your microbiome. We go far beyond food and supplements to explore how hormones, intimacy, stress, and human connection are quietly reshaping your gut health every single day.Emily reveals why men and women have fundamentally different gut microbiomes, how a 10-second kiss transfers 80 million microbes between partners, and why stress, trauma, and even loneliness might impact your gut health more than any probiotic.This isn't about achieving perfect gut health. It's about understanding that your microbiome is alive, responsive, and deeply interconnected with how you feel, relate, and move through the world.In this conversation, we explore: • Why men and women experience gut health differently • How estrogen fluctuations and menopause alter women's gut diversity • Why testosterone and sperm quality are linked to gut health in men • The surprising ways sex and cohabitation change your microbiome • How stress, loneliness, and trauma can shrink your microbiome • The emerging connections between ADHD, autism, and gut-brain signaling • Why breathwork is one of the most underrated tools for gut health • The truth about commercial gut testing versus listening to your body • What stool reveals that gut tests don't • The role of polyphenols, fibre & fermented foods in microbial diversity • How gardening, touch, and community naturally diversify your microbesYou'll leave with a completely reframed understanding of gut health. One that honors the emotional, social, and hormonal dimensions of wellness alongside the nutritional ones.Love,Sarah Ann

What if failure isn't the problem, but the solution? In this video, we unpack the neuroscience of fear, failure, and self-compassion. We explore how small changes like a single cup of greens or taking the first uncomfortable step can rewire the brain. This isn't about hacks. It's about mindset, values, and learning to see failure as information, not identity.The Brain DocsListen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:How to Prevent Alzheimer's and Boost Your Brain Health with These PROVEN Foods | The Brain Docshttps://youtu.be/HKEvPm11R3o***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

What if inflammation didn't just come from your diet but from your digital habits? In this clip, Professor Dan Nicolau shares the overlooked connection between attention, immune response, and the subtle biological cost of modern screen use.Dan NicolauListen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:The Brain Immune Expert: ALERT! Social Media Is Reprogramming Your Immune System | Prof Nicolauhttps://youtu.be/2zNw6pzv8qk***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of grief, trauma, death, childhood illness (including cancer), and environmental toxins. Listener discretion is advised — particularly for parents and caregivers of children affected by illness.If you've been navigating your health through routines, biohacks, or supplements but still feel disconnected, burnt out, or unwell, this conversation may shift everything.True healing is rarely about control. And it's almost never linear.In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Zach Bush, a triple board-certified physician in internal medicine, endocrinology, and hospice care, and founder of regenerative health company Farmer's Footprint, to rethink everything we've been told about medicine, longevity, and what it means to feel whole. Dr. Zach's research reveals how the human gut microbiome contains more biodiversity than any other ecosystem on Earth, including rainforests and coral reefs, and how this internal garden directly influences our capacity for creative thought, emotional resilience, and physical healing.This isn't just about symptoms or protocols. It's about connection to nature, to others, and most of all, to yourself.We explore how modern health has become more fragmented than ever, and why the root of healing might be much quieter, much simpler, and much more human than we've been led to believe. Dr. Zach explains how your body regenerates your entire gut lining every three days, why stress hormones function as internal antibiotics that destroy beneficial bacteria, and how forest bathing measurably shifts your nervous system from sympathetic overdrive to parasympathetic healing, which is why Japan now prescribes it as first-line treatment for depression.Together, we explore: • Why the body is always healing at rates we can barely comprehend, unless we get in the way • How the gut's biodiversity mirrors the richness of our inner and outer environments • What real nourishment means (and why food prepared with love heals differently than nutrients consumed alone) • The specific physiological changes that occur during forest bathing and why biodiversity exposure enhances creativity • How to practice presence in your body as medicine • Why multi-generational living is the only consistent factor across all Blue Zones for longevity • And why stillness, beauty, and presence are not luxuries but essential medicineYou'll come away with a deeper understanding of your body not as a project to manage, but as an ecosystem to listen to. Plus practical tools for reconnecting with the healing intelligence that's been with you all along. And maybe, like me, you'll find yourself exhaling, softening, and remembering what it means to live well and be well.Love,Sarah Ann

What if the key to a longer, more meaningful life isn't another optimization, but knowing when to pause? In this clip, Dan Buettner unpacks five essential reflections: small decisions with big consequences, success beyond output, and what Vipassana taught him about regret, behavior, and real peace.Dan BuettnerListen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsor! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.com***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:3 NEW Science-Backed Blue Zone Strategies To Increase Your Lifespan & Happiness: Dan Buettnerhttps://youtu.be/PA4ZCWsS05U***Let's be friends!

We often blame the wrong things when love doesn't work, timing, chemistry, the other person. But what if the real pattern is internal? In this clip, we explore how your dating archetype, emotional pacing, and inner readiness quietly shape who you choose, and what you allow.Listen to the full episode⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

If you've been managing IBS by avoiding certain foods but still experiencing unpredictable flare-ups, you're not alone. Emerging science shows that IBS is a complex condition involving multiple body systems: your nervous system, immune response, and gut microbiome all influence how and when symptoms appear.For something so physical, IBS is rarely just about the gut.I created this IBS Masterclass podcast episode to help you finally understand what's really driving your symptoms. And it's not just about food. Stress, sleep, movement, and even your gut-brain connection can all play a role in making IBS worse.Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, affects nearly 1 in 10 people worldwide, yet it's still so often dismissed as "just a sensitive gut." The reality? IBS sits in that quiet, complicated space between physical and emotional. And we don't need more elimination diets or shame. We need understanding, compassion, and space to heal.To give you the clearest answers, I've brought together the world's leading gut health experts:Dr. Will Bulsiewicz – gastroenterologist and NYT bestselling author of Fiber Fueled, helping us understand the role of fiber, fermentation, and plant diversity in long-term digestive healthDr. James Kinross – colorectal surgeon and author of Dark Matter, exploring how gut bacteria influence inflammation, immunity, and disease riskDr. Emeran Mayer – gastroenterologist & neuroscientist, author of The Mind-Gut-Immune Connection, bringing over four decades of research into how emotions, microbes, and immunity shape the IBS experienceProfessor Felice Jacka – Director of the Food & Mood Centre at Deakin University, pioneer in nutritional psychiatry, uncovering how food and mental health are deeply connected through the gutWe explore: • How stress and trauma shape gut-brain signalling • Why the vagus nerve is a key player in digestion• The misunderstood link between emotional health and IBS • Whether FODMAP diets help or simply mask deeper issues • And how to create a sense of calm in your body that supports long-term healingThis isn't just a masterclass. It's a myth-busting, life-affirming conversation that every person with IBS deserves to hear. You'll discover why your body reacts the way it does and learn how to listen with more compassion. Because sometimes, what looks like bloating or discomfort is your nervous system saying, "I don't feel safe."If IBS has made you feel frustrated, alone, or disconnected from your own body, I hope this episode brings you clarity and relief. You deserve to feel at home in your body again.Love,Sarah Ann

We all feel the pressure at some point. Marriage, motherhood, career, are they really what you want, or just what's expected of you? This conversation opens up the difficult, sometimes uncomfortable questions many of us are afraid to ask out loud.Listen to the full episode⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vivobarefoot.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

Food addiction isn't about willpower.It's about biology.This week's guest, Dr. David A. Kessler, pulls back the curtain on GLP-1 drugs, the medications everyone's talking about but few truly understand. As a former FDA Commissioner, bestselling author of Diet, Drugs, and Dopamine, and someone who has personally used Ozempic, Dr. David reveals what pharmaceutical companies aren't telling you about how they actually work.David shares his own journey with GLP-1 medications, the science behind why they're so effective, and the critical conversations we're not having about safety, proper use, and what happens when you stop taking them.Through science, candor, and vulnerability, he explains:Why food addiction is real, and how it rewires the reward circuits of the brainHow GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic are changing the conversation about obesity and self-blameWhy “just eat less” doesn't work… and never didHow visceral fat creates an invisible storm of inflammation, starting in childhoodAnd what it means to actually change your relationship with food for goodDr Kessler doesn't offer a magic solution. He offers tools: from nutritional rewiring to behavioral insight, from emotional honesty to policy change.Ultimately, he reminds us that health isn't about being perfect. It's about understanding what drives us, learning how to interrupt the cycle, and reclaiming agency in a world designed to overwhelm it.Real healing isn't about restriction. It's about relief.It's not about weight. It's about freedom.Love,Sarah Ann

Did you know your mouth bacteria could be preventing pregnancy? Discover the groundbreaking connection between oral health and fertility that even top fertility clinics ignore! For men, oral infections can cause "bacterial spermarima," reducing sperm quality and causing erectile dysfunction. Plus, learn the shocking link between oral bacteria and endometriosis that's changing women's health forever.Listen to the full episode⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20⁠⁠⁠⁠www.vivobarefoot.com⁠⁠⁠⁠***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

Healing doesn't come from fixing yourself.It comes from understanding yourself.Not just the polished parts but the scared ones, the striving ones, the parts we hide to survive.This week's guest, Sarah Jones, is a storyteller, artist, and activist known for her fearless exploration of identity. But this conversation isn't just about identity in the outer world, it's about the stories we carry inside, and the compassion it takes to hold them with care.Raised in a racially and culturally mixed household, Sarah unpacks what it means to belong to many worlds and sometimes feel at home in none. Through humor, vulnerability, and incredible emotional depth, she shares how the practice of Internal Family Systems (IFS) helped her name, understand, and begin to heal her inner landscape.We explore:Why perfectionism is often just pain in disguiseWhat it means to live with “multiple parts” and how to listen to themThe link between emotional safety and self-worthHow addiction, self-abandonment, and survival can mask our basic goodnessAnd the healing power of play, creativity, and radical curiositySarah reminds us that real self-love isn't about declarations it's about attention. Tending to the parts of us that didn't get to speak, and learning to meet them with kindness.Love,Sarah Ann

If you're overwhelmed by all the health advice out there, this is where you start. I break down the three most powerful habits that have made the biggest difference in my life—and how you can make them stick without burning out. Whether you're just starting or trying to reset, this will help you move forward.Listen to the full episode⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20⁠⁠⁠www.vivobarefoot.com⁠⁠⁠***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

We're not taught how to train for our cycle.We're not taught how to eat for our hormones.We're not taught how our brains change - through menopause, pregnancy, or even monthly shifts.But we should be.This week's episode is a powerful roundtable of experts who are rewriting the script on women's health - not with trends, but with evidence, nuance, and real-life wisdom. Because the truth is, we don't need more restriction or more hustle. We need education. Compassion. And space to evolve.In this masterclass conversation, I'm joined by some of the world's leading minds on women's performance, pelvic health, nutrition, and cognition - including:Dr. Stacy Sims – exercise physiologist, menopause educator, and voice behind “Women Are Not Small Men”Kate Tolo – strength and conditioning coach bridging mindset and movementDr. Rena Malik – urologist and pelvic health expert breaking taboos with clarityDrs. Ayesha & Dean Sherzai – neurologists on a mission to end Alzheimer's and promote brain resilienceWe explore:The biggest misconceptions about protein and training for womenWhy Zone 2 cardio and strength work are non-negotiablesThe overlooked power of the pelvic floor (and how to protect it)What women actually need in midlife - from mindset to muscle massAnd how sex, stress, and social roles shape our health more than we thinkThis isn't just a masterclass - it's a myth-busting, life-affirming download that every woman deserves to hear. Whether you're in your 20s or your 60s, these insights will change the way you think about your body.Love,Sarah Ann

Most people think longevity is about diets and supplements—but that's not the real secret. The key to living longer is shaping your environment in ways that make healthy choices effortless. From walkable cities to small changes in your kitchen, this approach has been tested in 70+ cities. If you're tired of forcing yourself to be healthy, watch this.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20⁠⁠www.vivobarefoot.com⁠⁠***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

There are defining moments that split your life into before and after. Moments when everything you thought you knew gets stripped away, leaving only what truly matters. For Dr. David Fajgenbaum, that moment came not once, but five times, each bringing him closer to death and, paradoxically, teaching him how to live.This week's episode explores what happens when the system fails you and you refuse to accept failure. When David was diagnosed with Castleman disease at 25, a rare condition where your immune system turns against your own body, traditional medicine reached its limits. But David didn't. Instead of surrendering, he became both patient and researcher, ultimately discovering the treatment that would save not just his life, but potentially thousands of others.In our conversation, David reveals the mindset shifts that kept him fighting when hope felt impossible, how AI is revolutionizing our approach to drug discovery, and why the cure for your condition might already exist in a pharmacy right now. His story challenges everything we think we know about medicine, healing, and what's possible when you refuse to take no for an answer.What struck me most about our conversation wasn't just David's survival story, but how he turned personal crisis into a mission that's reshaping medicine. His ability to stay curious even when doctors said there was nothing left to try, and his belief that the answers we need might already exist, just waiting to be discovered. David showed me that breakthrough thinking isn't always about creating something new, but seeing what's already there differently.About Dr. David Fajgenbaum:Dr. David Fajgenbaum is a physician-scientist, bestselling author of Chasing My Cure, and co-founder of Every Cure, a nonprofit on a mission to unlock the full potential of every approved drug to treat every disease it possibly can. Recently named to TIME's 100 Health list for 2025, he's revolutionising medical research by repurposing existing drugs to treat rare diseases. His TED Talk has inspired millions, and his nonprofit work continues to unlock life-saving treatments hidden in plain sight.Connect with Dr. David Fajgenbaum:Website: https://everycure.orgInstagram: @dfajgenbaumFacebook: David FajgenbaumTwitter: @DavidFajgenbaumBook: Chasing My Cure – Available on AmazonLove,Sarah Ann

Do you really enjoy being social or are you just good at faking it? This conversation unpacks what it means to be introverted in a world that rewards extroversion. From social exhaustion to quiet leadership, we explore how to honor your energy without apology.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20⁠www.vivobarefoot.com⁠***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠***Let's be friends!

This week on Live Well Be Well, I got to sit down with the incredible Dr. Jessica Zucker, psychologist, writer, and fierce advocate for women's reproductive and mental health. We dove into some of the hardest stories we rarely talk about, the pressure to become a mother, the quiet weight of miscarriage, and that strange guilt that can come with ambivalence about parenthood. Jessica's wisdom on how our cultural scripts shape our inner lives is breathtaking and a much needed reminder that sharing our truths is how we heal.We peel back attachment theory in real life, exploring how our earliest bonds echo through every relationship we have and why rewriting those old narratives can be our greatest act of self love. Jessica does not shy away from the emotional labor we carry, the hidden tears, the unspoken hopes, and the ways we hold ourselves back from speaking up. This is not just theory, it is a heartfelt guide to giving voice to the parts of ourselves we have been taught to silence.By the end of our chat you will see why honesty is revolutionary, why compassion for yourself changes everything, and what courage really looks like in the messy middle of life. If you have ever felt alone in your doubts or stifled by expectations this episode is for you.About Dr. Jessica Zucker:Dr. Jessica Zucker is a renowned psychologist, writer, and advocate specialising in women's reproductive and maternal mental health. Based in Los Angeles, she has spent over 15 years supporting women through the emotional complexities of fertility, miscarriage, and motherhood. Jessica is the author of the bestselling book I Had a Miscarriage, which helped spark a global movement encouraging women to speak openly about pregnancy loss and reproductive grief. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, TIME, and The Guardian, and she is widely respected for her compassionate, feminist approach to breaking the silence around topics traditionally shrouded in shame.Connect with Dr. Jessica Zucker:Website: drjessicazucker.com/Instagram: @ihadamiscarriageTwitter: @DrZuckerBook: I Had a Miscarriage – Available on AmazonNewsletter: Sign up via her websiteLove,Sarah Ann

Ever feel like dating apps are just emotional quick fixes? This honest conversation explores why online dating often leaves us feeling lonelier, how love addiction shows up in our choices, and what it really means to attract the kind of relationship we deserve. It's not about finding someone, it's about finding yourself first.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.comOneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Identifying Your Bad Relationship: How to Leave and Find Healthier, Lasting Love | Paul Brunsonhttps://youtu.be/zMYIwp9oUX8?si=KU0pvlcoIbe7dwF0Simon Sinek: The 8-Minute Rule That Could SAVE YOUR Friendshipshttps://youtu.be/3JCjOQv9Y5E?si=9v8OszGVaogBySXZGet Over a Breakup, Fix Your Broken Heart & How To Practice Emotional First Aid | Guy Winchhttps://youtu.be/ocUJTFUOitA?si=C9oJHIW-brSjJSza***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/***Let's be friends!

This week on Live Well Be Well, I'm delighted to welcome cognitive scientist and philosopher John Vervaeke to explore what he calls "the meaning crisis" - a profound cultural shift affecting our collective wellbeing and sense of purpose.John unpacks why meaning is so essential to our cognitive agency, selfhood, and personhood. We explore how modern life has disconnected us from ourselves, from each other, and from the world around us, leading to rising mental health issues, addiction, and loneliness. As John explains, finding meaning isn't about pursuing individual purpose but about cultivating wisdom through shared experience and connection.As he powerfully notes, we shouldn't get deeply involved with someone who hasn't experienced significant grief because "they have not developed their humanity." We also discuss how to develop wisdom through what he calls "the flow state" - when we're so fully engaged that our sense of time diminishes and self-consciousness falls away.About John Vervaeke:John Vervaeke is a cognitive scientist, philosopher, and award-winning lecturer at the University of Toronto. His work combines cognitive science, philosophy, Buddhism, and other wisdom traditions to address the challenges of meaning-making in our modern world. John is the creator of the Awakening from the Meaning Crisis lecture series and author of a book by the same name.Connect with John Vervaeke:Website: johnvervaeke.comFacebook: John VervaekeYouTube: @johnvervaekeBook: https://amzn.to/3UdpgoxLectern Courses: http://lectern.teachable.comLove,Sarah Ann

Is fiber still the cornerstone of gut health? What role do polyphenols play if they barely reach the bloodstream? And why is diversity, not restriction, the true goal in dietary choices? This conversation explores the science of microbiota-targeted nutrition, fiber fermentation, butyrate production, and the risks of oversimplified food advice.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! OneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aging⁠http://oneskin.co/LWBW⁠Use code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Dr. Stacy Sims EXPOSES the Myths Hurting Women's Health | Fasting, Protein & Exercise⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1uksGzoick⁠Can Women Follow Bryan Johnson's $2M Anti-Aging Blueprint? Kate Tolo Shares Her Experience⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJC_E_gXYMg⁠Dr. Louise Newson: Hidden Menopause Signs You're Missing⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJC_E_gXYMg⁠***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠***Let's be friends!

This week on Live Well Be Well, I'm exploring the world of modern love and relationships with dating coach and author Francesca Hogi. In an era where AI relationships are becoming reality and dating apps dominate our search for connection, Francesca offers refreshing insights into how we can find authentic love in these complex times.Our conversation dives deep into what creates emotional safety in relationships, the importance of developing self-trust, and why so many people are feeling burnt out by modern dating culture. Francesca shares her powerful perspective on the "new definition of true love" and explains why rejection isn't what we think it is.Francesca explains that when you truly value yourself, you naturally become attracted to people who genuinely appreciate you rather than those who merely tolerate you. We also explore her fascinating Meet Cute Mindset framework for creating more opportunities to find love in everyday life.About Francesca Hogi:Francesca Hogi is a renowned dating coach, matchmaker, and author of How to Find True Love: A Practical Guide to Getting the Relationship You Want. With over a decade of experience helping people find meaningful connections, Francesca brings a unique blend of practical advice and profound wisdom to the often challenging world of modern dating.Connect with Francesca Hogi:Website: francescahogi.comInstagram: @dearfrannyFacebook: Francesca HogiLinkedIn: Francesca HogiLove,Sarah Ann

Each week, I ask my guest five questions designed to nourish their mind, body, and soul pre interview. These questions help us explore what makes each guest tick as an imperfect, evolving human, taking them out of their heads and into their bodies.While our discussions often go deep into the intellect, these questions invite my guests to step out of their comfort zones, gain a fresh perspective, and perhaps hold a bit more compassion for themselves. I believe this shift from headspace to heart space is something we can all relate to – it's the universal journey of being human.And as a listener, I hope you'll come away feeling a little more connected, not only to these stories but to the shared truths and vulnerabilities we uncover here. Each conversation is an opportunity to peek behind the scenes and share in the humanity of those on the other side of the microphone.Sixth - The Plant Power Doctor, Dr Gemma NewmanListen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsor! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.com***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:The #1 BETTER HEALTH Technique You Never Knew Existed! Dr Kristin Neffhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKq069w4rjI***Let's be friends!

Be Well Moments brings you my favorite bite-sized highlights from the season. Enjoy quick insights from our longer conversations in a digestible format. If you'd like to listen or watch the full episode, click the link below.I discovered why tracking our individual experiences matters more than following generic cycle-syncing advice, and how some women like Dr. Stacy Sims actually feel bulletproof right before their period. The research on menstrual cycle training is finally evolving beyond outdated stereotypes, and what I learned might just change how you approach your fitness routine forever.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! OneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Dr. Stacy Sims EXPOSES the Myths Hurting Women's Health | Fasting, Protein & Exercisehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1uksGzoickCan Women Follow Bryan Johnson's $2M Anti-Aging Blueprint? Kate Tolo Shares Her Experiencehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJC_E_gXYMgDr. Louise Newson: Hidden Menopause Signs You're Missinghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJC_E_gXYMg***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/***Let's be friends!

I'm excited to share this week's Live Well Be Well episode with you all! I had Dr. Dan Nicolau join me to explore the fascinating intersection of our brain and immune system - a relationship that could completely transform how we understand health and disease."Neuroimmunology" - the powerful two-way communication between our brain and immune system. We often think of these systems separately, but Dan reveals how they're constantly in dialogue, influencing everything from allergies and autoimmune conditions to mental health and chronic disease.We dive into how modern life - particularly our relationship with social media and screens - might be disrupting this delicate balance and potentially driving inflammation throughout our bodies. Dan shares insights from his groundbreaking research on how what we scroll through might literally be changing our biology, and offers practical wisdom on how we can become more mindful of these connections in our daily lives.About Dr. Dan Nicolau:Dr. Dan Nicolau is a polymath researcher whose work spans mathematics, engineering, medicine, and computer science. As a leading voice in neuroimmunology, his research explores how the brain and immune system communicate and how this relationship affects our health from allergies to cancer. His multidisciplinary approach combines rigorous science with profound philosophical insights about what it means to live well in the modern world.Connect with Dr. Dan Nicolau:Email: dan.nicolau@kcl.ac.ukLove,Sarah Ann

Each week, I ask my guest five questions designed to nourish their mind, body, and soul pre interview. These questions help us explore what makes each guest tick as an imperfect, evolving human, taking them out of their heads and into their bodies.While our discussions often go deep into the intellect, these questions invite my guests to step out of their comfort zones, gain a fresh perspective, and perhaps hold a bit more compassion for themselves. I believe this shift from headspace to heart space is something we can all relate to – it's the universal journey of being human.And as a listener, I hope you'll come away feeling a little more connected, not only to these stories but to the shared truths and vulnerabilities we uncover here. Each conversation is an opportunity to peek behind the scenes and share in the humanity of those on the other side of the microphone.Sixth - Professor of Clinical Psychology, Paul Gilbert Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsor! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.com***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:The #1 BETTER HEALTH Technique You Never Knew Existed! Dr Kristin Neffhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKq069w4rjIDr. William Li: Can Diet DAMAGE Your Blood Brain Barrier?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrCxdniSLiUHow to Protect Your Brain & Break Free from Ultra-Processed Foods | Dr. Chris Palmerhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XwRdDU1PCY***Let's be friends!

Be Well Moments brings you my favorite bite-sized highlights from the season. Enjoy quick insights from our longer conversations in a digestible format. If you'd like to listen or watch the full episode, click the link below.Ever wonder why you can't stop eating certain foods? Dr. Chris Van Tulleken shares his personal struggle with UPF addiction and explains the science behind why these foods are unlike anything humans evolved to eat. If you've ever felt shame about your eating habits or wondered why you can't leave even a corner of that sandwich, this is a must-watch.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.com ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Mo Gawdat: How To Transform Stress Into Successhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5THJeXv5X7s&t=649sBEAT STRESS With Science by Discovering Your Vagus Nerve | Stefan Chmelikhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pYp2dY6g1kOnly 12 Minutes to Remove Stress & Pain! Professor David Spiegel Unveils The Science Of Hypnosishttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0VAYuic_MU***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

Thrilled to welcome Talmage Johnson today on Live Well Be Well! After interviewing his father Bryan Johnson two years ago, I'm finally sitting down with the younger half of this pioneering health duo to discuss his journey with Blueprint – the revolutionary health protocol that's challenging how we approach longevity.At just 19 years old, Talmage offers a refreshingly thoughtful perspective on health optimisation. Talmage shares how his version of Blueprint focuses primarily on the foundational pillars of sleep, nutrition, and exercise. We dive deep into his daily routine – from his 4-6 hour eating window and plant-based diet to his disciplined sleep schedule and comprehensive fitness regimen.Talmage speaks candidly about balancing extreme discipline with enjoying life, his relationship with data tracking, and his unique perspective on relationships at his age. His insight into cultivating health habits at such a young age provides valuable wisdom for listeners of all generations.About Talmage Johnson:Talmage Johnson is a health advocate and entrepreneur who began following the Blueprint protocol at age 16. Now at 19, he works with his father Bryan Johnson at their health company while taking a gap year from university. He shares his health journey publicly, participating in what he calls "compounding health" - making a long-term investment in his future self through disciplined health practices.Connect with Talmage Johnson:Instagram: @talmagejohnson_X: @talmagejohnson_LinkedIn: Talmage JohnsonLove, Sarah Ann

Each week, I ask my guest five questions designed to nourish their mind, body, and soul pre interview. These questions help us explore what makes each guest tick as an imperfect, evolving human, taking them out of their heads and into their bodies.While our discussions often go deep into the intellect, these questions invite my guests to step out of their comfort zones, gain a fresh perspective, and perhaps hold a bit more compassion for themselves. I believe this shift from headspace to heart space is something we can all relate to – it's the universal journey of being human.And as a listener, I hope you'll come away feeling a little more connected, not only to these stories but to the shared truths and vulnerabilities we uncover here. Each conversation is an opportunity to peek behind the scenes and share in the humanity of those on the other side of the microphone.Fifth - Bhakti Yoga teacher, Radhika DasListen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.comOneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Burnout Is Draining Your Potential & What Does Science Say About Managing Stress? | Sophie Scotthttps://youtu.be/zyyUCN6j4W0?si=ycno5ob96XmcGa_6BEAT STRESS With Science by Discovering Your Vagus Nerve | Stefan Chmelikhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pYp2dY6g1kMo Gawdat: How To Transform Stress Into Successhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5THJeXv5X7s***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

Be Well Moments brings you my favorite bite-sized highlights from the season. Enjoy quick insights from our longer conversations in a digestible format. If you'd like to listen or watch the full episode, click the link below.This conversation completely changed how I approach my health journey as a woman. Kate Tolo shares her honest experience following an extreme health protocol and why perfectionism actually sabotaged her results. If you've ever beaten yourself up for craving chocolate during your period or wondered why some days you crush workouts while others feel impossible, this explains everything.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.comOneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:The MOST Surprising Food That Fights Disease & Helps With Losing Weight | Doug Evanshttps://youtu.be/YRuYfCmIz74How to Prevent Alzheimer's and Boost Your Brain Health with These PROVEN Foods | The Brain Docshttps://youtu.be/HKEvPm11R3o3 NEW Science-Backed Blue Zone Strategies To Increase Your Lifespan & Happiness: Dan Buettnerhttps://youtu.be/PA4ZCWsS05U***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

Today on Live Well Be Well, I'm diving into a topic that's often overlooked but incredibly important—your oral microbiome. I'm joined by Dr. Katie Lee, who's been exploring this field long before it started getting the attention it deserves.We've all heard about the gut microbiome, but did you know your mouth houses billions of bacteria that significantly impact your overall health? From heart disease and dementia to fertility struggles - the connection between your oral health and these conditions is astonishing! Dr. Lee explains how bleeding gums are actually a warning sign of "leaky gums" allowing bacteria to enter your bloodstream and potentially cause harm throughout your body.We discuss practical tips for maintaining a healthy oral microbiome, from proper brushing and flossing techniques to choosing the right products. Dr. Lee shares eye-opening insights about how snacking habits, breathing methods, and even certain toothpastes can disrupt your oral microbiome.About Dr. Katie Lee:Dr. Katie Lee is a renowned dentist and author of Save by the Mouth, where she explores the crucial connections between oral health and systemic wellness. With extensive clinical experience and a passion for preventative care, Dr. Lee operates a telehealth service helping patients optimize their oral microbiome through testing and personalized treatment plans.Connect with Dr. Katie Lee:Website: katieleedds.comInstagram: @katieleeddsTelehealth Services: katieleedds.com/telehealthLove, Sarah Ann

Each week, I ask my guest five questions designed to nourish their mind, body, and soul pre interview. These questions help us explore what makes each guest tick as an imperfect, evolving human, taking them out of their heads and into their bodies.While our discussions often go deep into the intellect, these questions invite my guests to step out of their comfort zones, gain a fresh perspective, and perhaps hold a bit more compassion for themselves. I believe this shift from headspace to heart space is something we can all relate to – it's the universal journey of being human.And as a listener, I hope you'll come away feeling a little more connected, not only to these stories but to the shared truths and vulnerabilities we uncover here. Each conversation is an opportunity to peek behind the scenes and share in the humanity of those on the other side of the microphone.Fourth - author and psychotherapist, Sophie Scott.Listen to the full episode ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.comOneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:The Hidden Dangers of Being TOO Productive | Oliver Burkemanhttps://youtu.be/Eg3yMIM9R4o?si=RPl152l8WgYuoPXMYung Pueblo's ONE Habit That CHANGED His Life Foreverhttps://youtu.be/a5_16t0gIlk?si=D_lAYPWjzTh9AOORThis Is HOW You Can Architect Your Emotions | Dr. Lisa Feldman Barretthttps://youtu.be/Es2i3oLj6Nw?si=-DFwWsDtDADKByFB***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠⁠⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠***Let's be friends!

Be Well Moments brings you my favorite bite-sized highlights from the season. Enjoy quick insights from our longer conversations in a digestible format. If you'd like to listen or watch the full episode, click the link below.You've probably heard that sprouts are healthy—but I went all in. I lived on nothing but sprouts for 30 days, and what happened blew my mind. From detox to inflammation to insane energy and sleep, this is what you need to know if you're serious about health. We dive deep into the NRF2 pathway, brain chemistry, sulforaphane, and why day 3 broccoli sprouts are your new best friend.Listen to the full episode ⁠here⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠here⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.comOneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Live to 100 with Secrets of the Blue Zones: What The Longest Living People Eat Daily | Dan Buettnerhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUHR8wwSVIsEllen Langer: The Mind Can Slow Down an Aging Bodyhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGpNMy1VxsYMost Extreme Anti-Ageing Routine: How To STAY YOUNG Forever & Look 18 Again | Bryan Johnsonhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G-Ax76WwXM***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠***Let's be friends!

This week, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with someone whose story of transformation is not just powerful, but profoundly moving. Doug Bopst, once a convicted felon and drug addict, is now a celebrated speaker, author, and personal trainer using his experience to inspire others to break free from addiction and build lives of purpose and passion.In this episode, Doug and I dive deep into the truth behind recovery, the mindset shifts required to let go of the past, and the tools that helped him completely reshape his future. He shares how a cellmate in jail became the unexpected catalyst for his change, and how fitness, nutrition, and a strong spiritual foundation became pillars in his healing journey.We also touch on the male mental health crisis, vulnerability as a strength, and the importance of building authentic connections in a disconnected world. Doug opens up about how he found faith, purpose, and peace—and how he maintains his mindset on the hard days.If you've ever felt stuck, unworthy, or afraid to face your past, this conversation is here to show you that change is always possible.About Doug Bopst: Doug is an award-winning personal trainer, author of three books, and host of the Adversity Advantage Podcast. His mission is to help people break free from addiction and transform their lives through fitness, mindset, and personal accountability.Connect with Doug Bopst:

Each week, I ask my guest five questions designed to nourish their mind, body, and soul pre interview. These questions help us explore what makes each guest tick as an imperfect, evolving human, taking them out of their heads and into their bodies.While our discussions often go deep into the intellect, these questions invite my guests to step out of their comfort zones, gain a fresh perspective, and perhaps hold a bit more compassion for themselves. I believe this shift from headspace to heart space is something we can all relate to – it's the universal journey of being human.And as a listener, I hope you'll come away feeling a little more connected, not only to these stories but to the shared truths and vulnerabilities we uncover here. Each conversation is an opportunity to peek behind the scenes and share in the humanity of those on the other side of the microphone.Fourth -  Harvard psychiatrist and researcher, Dr. Chris Palmer.Listen to the full episode ⁠here⁠.Watch the full episode on YouTube ⁠here⁠.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.comOneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:How to Reset Your Vagus Nerve & Unlock Better Mental Health | Radhika Dashttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rUi49Iiq0U&t=2sYung Pueblo's ONE Habit That CHANGED His Life Foreverhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5_16t0gIlk&t=115sDr. William Li: Can Diet DAMAGE Your Blood Brain Barrier?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrCxdniSLiU&t=115s***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. ⁠https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/⁠***Let's be friends!

This conversation hit me hard as my own grandmother suffered from Alzheimer's for 14 years before passing. If you're worried about cognitive decline for yourself or someone you love, this clip delivers game-changing insights. The neurologists break down why women are more susceptible to Alzheimer's, and reveal the NEURO plan - a simple framework anyone can follow to protect their brain health. They debunk the oversimplified "Type 3 Diabetes" theory and explain how up to 80% of dementia cases might be preventable through lifestyle changes. This isn't just about adding years to your life, but life to your years by protecting your most precious asset - your mind.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.comOneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/***Let's be friends!

This week, I'm sitting down once again with someone who's not only inspired millions around the world but has become a close friend - Simon Sinek. It's such a joy to have this deeply open and personal conversation in his own home, where we journey far beyond leadership theory into the very heart of identity, self-acceptance, and the messy beauty of being human.Simon is the renowned author of Start With Why, Leaders Eat Last, and The Infinite Game. Known globally for his work on leadership and purpose, Simon has transformed how organisations and individuals think about fulfilment, motivation, and long-term success. But in this episode, we strip all that back. What was Simon like before his big ideas took shape? How did his ADHD diagnosis in adulthood impact him? And why does he believe our unique neurodivergence can be our greatest superpower?We speak candidly about mental health, self-doubt, the friction of neurodivergence, and why vulnerability with friends has been key to Simon's own journey of growth. This isn't the Simon you've heard in keynote speeches - this is the Simon who's still evolving, still curious, and still navigating change. I think you'll find real comfort and wisdom in what he shares.About Simon Sinek: Simon is a bestselling author, inspirational speaker, and unshakable optimist. His work focuses on leadership, purpose, and building a better world by helping people live and lead more fulfilled lives. His TED Talk on “Start With Why” is one of the most watched of all time, and his ideas have influenced everyone from Fortune 500 CEOs to early-stage entrepreneurs.Follow Simon Sinek:Website: simonsinek.comInstagram: @simonsinekTwitter/X: @simonsinekLinkedIn: Simon SinekLove,Sarah Ann

Each week, I ask my guest five questions designed to nourish their mind, body, and soul pre interview. These questions help us explore what makes each guest tick as an imperfect, evolving human, taking them out of their heads and into their bodies.While our discussions often go deep into the intellect, these questions invite my guests to step out of their comfort zones, gain a fresh perspective, and perhaps hold a bit more compassion for themselves. I believe this shift from headspace to heart space is something we can all relate to – it's the universal journey of being human.And as a listener, I hope you'll come away feeling a little more connected, not only to these stories but to the shared truths and vulnerabilities we uncover here. Each conversation is an opportunity to peek behind the scenes and share in the humanity of those on the other side of the microphone.Third - Clinical Lead in Adult and Pediatric Allergy, Professor Gideon Lack.Listen to the full episode here.Watch the full episode on YouTube here.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.comOneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:No.1 Gut Scientist: Insane Fiber Benefits to HEAL YOUR GUT & Beat Disease | Dr Will Bulsiewiczhttps://youtu.be/8X3b4Hzq75k?si=5QkLtuNL4QuK8NLCDr. William Li: Can Diet DAMAGE Your Blood Brain Barrier?https://youtu.be/UrCxdniSLiU?si=axPm-SE6AG0hGKJ1Stanford-trained physician: 5 Nutrients That SUPERCHARGE Your Cells (And Why It Matters)https://youtu.be/rFz1WTPMdBE?si=EXJUWh-liuXkmhEK***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/***Let's be friends!

Be Well Moments brings you my favorite bite-sized highlights from the season. Enjoy quick insights from our longer conversations in a digestible format. If you'd like to listen or watch the full episode, click the link below.What's the secret to living past 100? After interviewing over 450 centenarians in the world's Blue Zones, one surprising truth stands out: longevity isn't about wealth or cutting-edge technology—it's about community, generosity, and a simple, fulfilling life. In this clip, we explore the habits and wisdom of the world's longest-living people and why their way of life might be the best prescription for a long, happy life.Listen to the full episode here.Watch the full episode on YouTube here.***Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! VivoBarefoot | 'If you can't be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot'For 20% off, use code LWBW20www.vivobarefoot.comOneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aginghttp://oneskin.co/LWBWUse code LWBW for 15% off your first order ***If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:Live to 100 with Secrets of the Blue Zones: What The Longest Living People Eat Daily | Dan Buettnerhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUHR8wwSVIsEllen Langer: The Mind Can Slow Down an Aging Bodyhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGpNMy1VxsYMost Extreme Anti-Ageing Routine: How To STAY YOUNG Forever & Look 18 Again | Bryan Johnsonhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G-Ax76WwXM***Sign up to Sarah's Compassionate Cure newsletter: Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/***Let's be friends!

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Emilia Vuorisalmi, a medical doctor, researcher, and bestselling author known as Finland's Love Doctor. We dive deep into the science of love, heartbreak, and hormonal balance, exploring how dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin shape our emotions, relationships, and overall wellbeing.Dr. Vuorisalmi shares her personal journey of overcoming love addiction, revealing how heartbreak can physically manifest in the body—and more importantly, how to heal. We discuss somatic therapy, breathwork, meditation, and lifestyle changes that help reset the nervous system and bring balance to our love hormones.Topics Covered:✔️ How love and heartbreak impact our brain chemistry✔️ The science behind love addiction and how to break free✔️ Dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin - what they really do✔️ How to use breathwork and meditation to heal from emotional pain✔️ The hidden dangers of dating apps and dopamine addiction✔️ Why boundaries are key to healthy relationships✔️ The power of manifestation, self-worth, and connection